No matter the time of year, you can enjoy a nice day trip to one of the many lake or rivers in Montana. Some of our most charming spots happen to lie on the banks of our rivers and lakes, and they are always a pleasure to visit, no matter the season.

If you have time for a day trip this month, consider one of these Montana lake towns.

1. Fort Benton
Fort Benton, MT 59442, USA
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
Fort Benton is one of the most charming places in the country, much less Montana. The fact that it's located right on the Missouri River doesn't hurt, either.
2. Polson
Polson, MT 59860, USA
PJ Johnson / Flickr
Summer isn't the only time you should visit Polson. In fact, this small town is especially colorful in the fall.
3. Lakeside
Lakeside, MT 59922, USA
PJ Johnson / Flickr
Lakeside is a lovely little community nestled on the banks of Flathead Lake, and it's the perfect place to spend a quiet afternoon.

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4. St. Regis
Saint Regis, St Regis, MT 59866, USA
thesoundguy / TripAdvisor
Hike the amazing Clark Fork River Trail, visit the exciting St. Regis Travel Center shop The Place of Antiques and grab a bite at Huck's Grill. You just might fall in love with St. Regis.
5. Bigfork
Bigfork, MT 59911, USA
Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
It doesn't matter what time of year you visit Bigfork. It's always beautiful. Just make sure you stay for sunset.
6. Libby
Libby, MT 59923, USA
Richard Bauer / Flickr
Libby isn't exactly an easy day trip for most Montanans, but if you live in Western Montana, it's a beautiful place to spend a day. Not only is the town itself charming, but you'll be right on the Kootenay River.
7. Dayton
Dayton, MT, USA
Jonathan Coffey / Flickr
The town itself is minuscule, but the views of Flathead Lake from Dayton can't be beat. Definitely make this a stop on any longer trips in the area.

Which of these Montana lake towns are you most excited to visit? Big Sky Country definitely has the best waterfront towns… probably because our lakes are amazing.

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Lake towns in Montana

Sara Dager | May 20, 2022

What are the most beautiful lakes in Montana?

One of the best places to enjoy big sky country and all its beauty is from one of its many lakes. This is going to be hard to believe, but Montana has over 3,000 named lakes and reservoirs! That number seems almost impossible when you hear it first, but it's the most wondrous of truths. Of the many lakes in Montana a few are extra special. Avalanche lake in Glacier is surrounded by a jaw dropping mountain range and the water is so beautifully clear. For a family friendly lake experience check out Lake Elmo in Billings, it is located in a gorgeous park!

Are there any good swimming holes in  Montana?

Visiting a swimming hole is a tried-and-true tradition in Montana. Taking a dip on a hot day is a great way to cool off and enjoy nature solo or with loved ones. At the Duck Creek bridge area in Billings you can paddle in swimming holes created by the Yellowstone river! Or maybe you want your swim to be nice and toasty, then journey to Gigantic Warm springs in the Lewistown area. We've also compiled a list of the 13 best swimming holes in Montana for you to peruse at your leisure.

What are the most memorable hotels in Montana?

If you want to make your trip to Montana as memorable as possible, consider choosing some unique accommodations to stay in. The best hotels in Montana offer a range of amenities, interesting settings, and fun decorations. You can stay in a Hobbit house, tucked into the foothills of the cabinet mountains, you'll feel just like a character in one of Tolkien's novels. Or maybe a Victorian mansion, is more your style. And for the animal lovers among us, you can even stay in an actual wolf sanctuary!

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